Surprising parallels: How The Changeling is similar to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.

The episode of The Changeling titled "Aftermath" delves into the concept of aftermath, exploring the repercussions of a significant and unpleasant event. As the episode unfolds, various themes and elements from the narrative resemble Lewis Carroll's timeless classic, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Both works feature elements of mystery, transformation, and memory as the characters navigate unfamiliar realms and face personal challenges. In this article, we will examine the similarities and contrasts between the episode and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.One striking parallel between the two narratives is the exploration of identity. In Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Alice constantly questions her identity and struggles to maintain a sense of self as she encounters absurd and perplexing situations. Similarly, in "Aftermath," Emma faces a similar struggle as she tries to ascertain the truth about her experiences. Is she a victim of her mother's mental illness, or has she truly encountered the mysterious happenings on the island? Like Alice, Emma must navigate through a confusing landscape, grappling with her own sense of identity and the reality of her situation.Another similarity arises in the idea of change and transformation. In Carroll's novel, Alice often experiences unexpected transformations, growing and shrinking in size, and assuming different identities. These transformations challenge her perception of reality and undermine her sense of control. In "Aftermath," the characters also face transformations, albeit in a metaphorical sense. Emma undergoes a process of personal growth and empowerment as she breaks free from her restraints and defies Cal's authority. This transformation reflects her determination to find her son and assert her agency in the face of adversity, much like Alice's resilience throughout her journey in Wonderland.Memory is another thematic element that connects the episode with Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. In the novel, Alice's memories often betray her, with her recollections becoming increasingly fragmented and unreliable. Similarly, Emma grapples with the trauma of her past and the uncertainty of her present experiences. The mysterious messages, the missing children, and the inexplicable passage of time all contribute to Emma's questioning of her own memories. This exploration of memory adds a layer of depth to the narrative, blurring the boundaries between reality and imagination, much like the fantastical world Alice finds herself in.While there are compelling similarities between the episode and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, there are also notable contrasts. One of the significant differences lies in the tone and atmosphere of the two works. Carroll's novel is whimsical and dreamlike, with a surreal and nonsensical quality that reflects the absurdity of Wonderland. In contrast, "Aftermath" carries a more somber and suspenseful tone, emphasizing the aftermath of the traumatic event and the characters' struggles to come to terms with it. The darker undertones highlight the psychological and emotional consequences experienced by the characters, setting a stark contrast to the light-heartedness of Alice's adventures.Furthermore, while Alice's Adventures in Wonderland primarily focuses on Alice's personal journey and self-discovery, "Aftermath" incorporates a wider array of characters and subplots. Each character in the episode has their own narrative arc and unique challenges, contributing to the complexity and multifaceted nature of the story. This divergence from the singular focus on Alice highlights the diverse perspectives and experiences of the characters in "Aftermath," adding depth and richness to the overall narrative.In conclusion, the episode of The Changeling, "Aftermath," presents a thought-provoking exploration of aftermath, identity, change, and memory, drawing parallels to Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. While both works delve into the strange and the unknown, they differ in tone, character focus, and narrative complexity. By examining these similarities and contrasts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the thematic depth and creative storytelling of both The Changeling and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.